U-PLAY Holiday Events

Explore, play, create

U-PLAY is back with a bang! Guaranteed to keep the winter blues away, our fizzing line-up of free and low-cost events and activities gives you lots of options to keep the tamariki (kids) busy, active, and entertained.

A big kia ora to national treasure Suzy Cato, who will be joining us at Central Library for an extra special storytime.

Over at Whirinaki Whare Taonga, it's all about taking a fascinating glimpse into the tiny, wonderful world of insects, explored through photography, crafts, and performances.

We have also teamed up again with a few local sports and active recreation organisations. Due to its huge popularity during our autumn U-PLAY programme, have-a-go darts is back, and we are inviting you to learn about and try out an exciting range of traditional Māori games with Tū Mātau Ora.

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Alternatively, you can pick up a printed calendar at Upper Hutt Libraries, Civic Centre Building, and Whirinaki Whare Taonga, from Monday, 16 June 2025.

Upcoming U-PLAY events

Some of our events are by registration only, or require bookings – click on an event to register or book.

U-PLAY: Traditional Māori Games with Tū Mātau Ora

Nau mai, haere mai! Traditional Māori games, suitable for all ages and abilities) with Tū Mātau Ora. Registration required.

StoryTots at Central

An introduction to books and learning through stories, songs and rhymes!

StoryTots at Pinehaven

An introduction to books and learning through stories, songs and rhymes!

U-PLAY: Under-5s Indoor Play

Join us in the play zone! We'll bring all your favourite toys and play equipment, so get ready to move, jump, and zoom around to fun music. For tamariki (kids) under 5.

U-PLAY: Darts

Something different to try out! A fun, safe intro session for kids, some darts equipment provided. For ages 9 and over, registration required.

U-PLAY: Over-5s Indoor Play

Epic play is back for the winter holidays! Jump, explore, and dive into awesome activities. With fun tunes to move and groove. For ages 5 and over.

U-PLAY: Teen Tactical Showdown

Roll the dice, play the card, take the risk, and win the game! Grab your BFFs, and bring everyone you know. For ages 13 and over.

U-PLAY: Multi-Sport Day with Junior Cricket Upper Hutt

Get ready for an action-packed day of fun with Upper Hutt Cricket! Play, compete, have fun. Bookings required, $10 per person.

U-PLAY: Magnificent Masks at Central Library

Unmask your secret identity! Make a mask to show us who you want to be. An animal? A superhero? All materials provided.

U-PLAY: Magnificent Masks at Pinehaven Library

Unmask your secret identity! Make a mask to show us who you want to be. An animal? A superhero?

U-PLAY: Hunt for Ancient Wonders

Voyage the world and discover the secrets of ancient civilisations! A fun scavenger hunt for young explorers.

U-PLAY: Suzy Cato

It’s our time, kia ora, talofa! Join the spectacular Suzy Cato for stories, songs, and an opportunity to say hello. Spaces are limited; arrive from 2.30PM to secure a spot.

U-PLAY: Build a Bug

Bzzz! Celebrate the wonderful world of bugs with us and create your very own fantastic creepy-crawly. All resources provided.

U-PLAY: The Home Inside

Join us for great music, captivating puppetry, and striking colours! A heartwarming tale for children about self-discovery and the beauty of nature. Bookings required.

U-PLAY: The Natural - NZ String Quartet

Experience the iconic sounds of New Zealand's birdlife and nature like you never have before. Bookings required.

U-PLAY: Microsculpture - The Insect Photography of Levon Biss

Dive into the magnificent world of insects with this breath-taking exhibition. Entry by koha (donation).

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